I live in DFW area and you have quilt stores, bees and quilt guilds. We have at least 3-5 quilt shows all in driving distance with less than 30 min. from each one. Houston is about a 3-3 1/2 hour drive which is great with a friend or two. We have mild winters (occasional snow - 2-4 days a year) but really hot summers which are great days to spend in your sewing room! I recently retired and love it!
Susan